The Indian Super League (ISL) has seen many footballers (attackers to midfielders to defenders and goalkeepers) over the years who have made their mark with great performances. With a budget of around ₹593.25 crore – people in India expect quality football.
We looked at the data from All India Football Federation to see who is the best player in ISL history and then we looked at each player’s total goals.
We also present you with these players’ outstanding track records on the pitch.
Some of the greatest players in ISL history are the ones who were able to deliver when the time called for it and gave Indian fans what is often the best moments in football. Their performances electrified fans and pushed teams into even greater performing levels.
Their legacy we see and feel even today; we know this because they have undoubtedly set the standards of how the league has grown and how followers and fans view and support ISL football. Their legacy continues to shape and inspire both players and fans.
Ogbeche (born 1984) last played for Hyderabad FC from 2021 to 2023. He is a big forward and also the kind of striker defenders don’t want to face because he is powerful and intelligent and really good at finding space.
He participated in numerous matches while in Europe and brings a Nigerian touch every time he finishes off chances in the back of the net. No wonder he scored over 60 goals in India. He is a real legend in the ISL and a player we will all remember.
If you’re wondering who the most iconic Indian footballer is, right now we’d have to say it’s this one! Captain Fantastic, Sunil Chhetri, is not just a player; he is the talisman of Indian football and a living legend. A forward with Bengaluru FC in ISL, he is as calm as he is loved by fans.
What’s wonderful about him is that he runs like a young player and leads with confidence and humility. If you didn’t know any better you wouldn’t realise he’s 41 years old!
Corominas played his last match for FC Goa as a forward from 2017 to 2020. A prolific goals scorer throughout the league from day one, Coro was calm in front of goal every season he played.
Few could say they contributed to Goa’s success in the way Coro did. Coro’s Indian Super League legacy is one of the best. It’s no wonder so many fans love this player.
If you plan on scaring the opponent’s defense, then you need a player like Roy Krishna by your side. A player whose most recent ISL stint came as a forward with Odisha FC, the Fijian striker is very fast on and off the ball, and reads the game like a book. And his finishes With the ball at his feet he is a total beast!
The defenders know that Krishna will always bring pure speed and smart movement at various points in the attack to put himself in position and strike when needed. Defenders are really afraid of his acceleration and hunger to score goals.
Mendoza played in the ISL as a forward for Chennaiyin FC in the 2014–2015 seasons. Known for his speed and fearless dribbling – he used to leave defenders chasing shadows.
Mendoza loved to take on opponents with true South American flair. He won the crowd with his speed and unpredictability and the way he broke lines and decided matches with moments of brilliance. All of this made him one of the most exciting attackers back when the Indian Super League started.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu plays in the Indian Super League for Bengaluru FC as their first-choice goalkeeper. Sandhu (aka India’s Great Wall) stands tall and composed and completely in control of his penalty area.
Sandhu provides unmatched security behind the defensive line with a big presence and quick reflexes. His leadership and the way he reads danger That makes him one of the safest pair of hands in Indian football.
Amrinder Singh is Odisha FC’s first-choice goalkeeper who is most famous for his courage and calmness. This legend and fan favourite is really the best at reading the game early. That makes it easy for him to react quickly.
He makes many saves look effortless. He’s the kind of goalkeeper defenders trust completely. His reflexes and confident handling has earned him respect season after season. He proves why he’s one of India’s most important goalkeepers.
If samba and football in India came together, they would create Elano Blumer. This player’s Brazilian flair when he played for Chennaiyin FC from 2014 to 2015 as an attacking midfielder made him a true maestro! He practically danced his way through opponents’ teams with his footballing creativity and composure.
Watching him play football was like watching the best sunset at the Rann of Kutch: beautiful and majestic! Chennaiyin FC were truly lucky to have this player as part of their arsenal!
Jeje Lalpekhlua last played in the ISL for SC East Bengal in the 2020–2021 season. He’s quiet and humble off the pitch but busy and fast on the pitch. In his day he used to transform completely once the whistle blew.
Jeje (the Mizo Sniper) is known for his quick finishing and ability to stay calm in tight spaces. His composure and strength in front of goal made him one of India’s most consistent strikers. Having a record like that puts him at the top of India’s footballers.
Sandesh Jhingan last played in the ISL for FC Goa as a centre-back. He’s a defender who brings toughness and leadership to every match. Strong in the air and fearless in challenges – Jhingan throws himself into every duel which sets the tone for his team’s defence.
Jhingan’s commitment and resilience makes him one of the most respected and reliable defenders in the league – as a long time pillar of India’s defence.
The players we wrote about have made an impact in the ISL and have given fans moments of joy that will be etched in their memory forever. Their impact is in fewer games but have changed the face of football in India by inspiring young talent.
These are more than great players; they are personalities fans love. Their legendary status includes icons who have entertained fans and raised the bar of Indian football.